Hardee Junior High showcases esports, robotics, culinary and agriscience programs to school board

Hardee County School Board members heard a showcase from Hardee Junior High staff Jan. 9 detailing new and expanding student programs in esports, robotics, culinary arts and agriscience.

Dr. Moseley, who introduced the presentations on behalf of Hardee Junior High, said the school has opened an esports lab "equipped with gaming chairs, high‑tech computers with LED lighting" and is offering three classes for sixth through eighth graders taught by Levi Lambert. "It's not just fun and games," Dr. Moseley said, noting students in the class will earn a Minecraft Prodigy education certification and the school plans an observation visit to Full Sail University in the spring.

Levi Lambert, the esports instructor referenced in the presentation, was described as leading the program’s initial year; the school said it is starting with…